Dutch Regional Development Companies Boost Innovation with €1 Billion Investment
Amsterdam, Friday, 4 July 2025.
The investment in over 2,500 SMEs aims to enhance innovation and sustainable growth, with significant contributions from regional companies addressing industry challenges.
Innovative Boost to Dutch SMEs
The nine regional development companies (ROMs) in the Netherlands have collectively contributed over €1 billion to innovation projects and business development from 2021 through 2024, supporting more than 2,500 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in their innovation journeys. This substantial investment prioritizes initiatives that aim to bolster industry capabilities in innovation, investment, and internationalization, addressing the urgent need for sustainable growth and strategic autonomy in the Netherlands [1][2].
Fostering Regional Growth
The efforts of the ROMs have been instrumental in increasing productivity and driving economic advancement in various regions across the Netherlands. In 2024 alone, €236 million was dispensed across 538 innovation projects, highlighting the continuous commitment to fostering a robust regional innovation ecosystem. Over €2 billion in investment was also garnered from 155 international companies, expected to create over 4,500 high-quality jobs in the coming years [1][2][3].
Key Projects and International Collaboration
Among the notable regional innovations facilitated by ROMs are initiatives such as the Biotechnology Fermentation Factor (BFF) in Ede, which accelerates innovations in protein transition, and Innovatiepunt KAAP in Vlissingen, which addresses energy, food, and water challenge themes. Additionally, projects like the precision fermentation facility and the large-scale perovskite production unit in North Brabant exemplify the groundbreaking work being carried out to replace traditional technologies with sustainable alternatives [2][3].
Sustaining Momentum in Innovation
Chairwoman Wendy de Jong has highlighted the significant role of ROMs in not merely regional but also national and European innovation outcomes. Their strategic support, funded regionally, nationally, and by European sources, promotes innovative ecosystems that can maintain global competitiveness. Continued investment and strategic guidance are crucial, ensuring that Dutch SMEs can leverage innovation to maintain a sustainable future [2][3][4].